If you're thinking about picking up some kind of martial arts training, it'd be good for you to know exactly what type of styles exist and which one would be the best one for you. There are literally hundreds of different arts around, and each have their own different qualities along with strengths and weaknesses, to suit different people. There isn't one best martial arts technique because the best style or technique is the one that suits you and your style. Follow below as I give a brief outline of the different types of arts training, and depending on what you need this for, you can find one that may be right for you.
MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) – has been abbreviated to MMA, and is actually a combat sport where difference people are fighting against each other. There are now many MMA gyms available to the public since MMA is so popular now, thanks mainly to the UFC. Mixed martial arts would give you a variety of skills if you ever needed to defend yourself. Among the skills are a mix of Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and other fighting skills.
Kung Fu – there are so many different types of styles and traditions when it comes to kung fu, it's actually very hard to assess. Kung fu actually isn't a type of martial art at all, it is a name that is given to any type ofl art from China. If you are looking for a type of kung fu that is best for self defense, Wing Chun Kung Fu is the most popular style in the West. It was developed mainly for smaller and physically weaker fighters to be able to beat a bigger and stronger opponent.
Jiu Jitsu – Jiu Jitsu martial arts training is mostly designated for grappling and restraint techniques, as opposed to boxing, striking, and so forth. It is used by military trainers, and police in many different countries, and is ideal for security guards, and bouncers. Grappling is usually ideal when you have to defend yourself against only one person. But when faced with multiple opponents grappling simply isn't feasible and you have to bring in other techniques. If you're worried about gangs, or attacks from multiple people, this is probably not the best practice for you.
Muay Thai – this is another arts training that is more of a sport rather than a method of self defense. A decent or good class will include some self-defense applications. This is also good if you want to get a balance between self-defense and fitness.
Karate – karate is a traditional type of martial arts, and has a much greater emphasis on self-defense. Karate training is good because it gives you an idea of what it's like to be in an actual fight. This is one of the best training techniques if you are looking for something that will give you a blend of both self-discipline and confidence. If you consider yourself as kind of a wimp or lack self-confidence, karate may be a good choice for you.